Prime Minister Hon. Mark Brown last night delivered a keynote address in Wellington, setting out a clear and confident vision for the Cook Islands as it marks 60 years of self-governance.
Speaking to key stakeholders, partners, and members of the Cook Islands community in Aotearoa New Zealand, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the central purpose of his visit: to connect with Cook Islanders abroad and strengthen the enduring relationship with New Zealand.
“This moment is about reflecting on how far we have come, and being clear about where we are going,” Prime Minister Brown said.
Anchored in the national theme Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku, the Prime Minister’s address focused on identity, unity, and the shared responsibility of shaping the country’s future.
He emphasised that culture and faith remain the foundation of Cook Islands leadership and development, guiding decision-making and strengthening resilience in a changing global environment.
“Our culture is not something we leave behind. It is what carries us forward,” he said.
A key focus of the address was the role of the Cook Islands diaspora, particularly the more than 90,000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand. The Prime Minister highlighted their contribution to both countries and reinforced their place at the centre of the nation’s future.
“When our people move abroad, our nation does not diminish. It grows,” he said.
The Prime Minister also spoke to the Cook Islands’ journey since 1965, from a small island state to a large ocean state with increasing global presence, underpinned by strong governance, international partnerships, and sustained economic progress.
He pointed to major national milestones, including the establishment of maritime boundaries, leadership in ocean stewardship, and the country’s graduation to high-income status in 2020, as evidence of a nation that has taken control of its own path.
Reaffirming the Cook Islands’ relationship with Aotearoa New Zealand, the Prime Minister was clear that the partnership remains enduring, grounded in shared history, values, and mutual benefit.
“This is a relationship we value deeply. It is one we have freely chosen, and one we remain committed to strengthening,” he said.
He acknowledged that, like any long-standing relationship, there are moments that require reflection, and stressed that current engagements are focused on ensuring the relationship continues to evolve in a way that reflects the maturity and aspirations of both countries.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined a forward-focused agenda centred on economic resilience, diversification, and responsible development.
The Prime Minister closed by calling for continued unity across the global Cook Islands community, encouraging all Cook Islanders to remain connected and engaged as the country moves into its next phase.
“The next chapter of our story will be written by all of us, at home and abroad,” he said.
“Let us go forward together with confidence, grounded in who we are, and clear in where we are heading.”
The Wellington address forms a key part of the Prime Minister’s New Zealand programme, which is focused on connecting with Cook Islanders, reinforcing partnerships, and demonstrating steady leadership at an important time.
